Grooming Needs
Cavaliers have a fairly easy care coat. They require a quick weekly or fortnightly brush and a feet trim about 4 times per year.
COAT
It is a good idea to get your puppy used to washing, drying, brushing or combing especially their ears, tail, chest and the lovely feathering. After years of trying many types of dog brushes, gloves and metal combs, I personally prefer a standard plastic medium comb.
The long hairs on the ears, tail and sometimes body don't appear overnight and you might need to wait until your pup is 18 months before you see the beautiful curtain. You may choose to clip the feathering hairs of your fur friend.
FEET
Cavaliers tend to have hairy feet and will likely require you to trim between their toes so they stay clean, fungus free and don't slip on your hard floor.
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We use electric hair trimmers to keep the feet healthy, comfortable and looking clean. Of course the trimmers vibrate and can tickle a little so we make sure to start early, even if there is nothing really needing a trim.
NAILS
Long nails can be painful to walk on and can lift your dogs toes or even curl right under and grow into their pads.
Dogs that are regularly walked on hard surfaces like footpaths and streets are likely not to need their nails trimmed often, but it is still important to handle your puppies feet at regular intervals so that they are used to it anyway. You will require nail trimmers specifically designed for dogs.
EARS
It is important to clean your pets ears often to avoid nasty infections or ear mites. We recommend doing this every time your animal is bathed.
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Our dogs are used to having showers and their ears are dried with a thin soft towel. There are many curves and crevasses inside a dogs ear so insure you get inside all of them.
Some people prefer to use the cotton tips but please be very careful as fur babies can be wriggly and it's important that you do not place the cotton tip too far into your pets ear to avoid hurting or even injuring them.
TEETH
There’s no doubt teeth are very important and your puppy will need not only a great diet but plenty of toys and hard items to chew to keep those teeth in top shape. We have been warned by vets against rope toys or other items that can stretch out in the dogs gut as well as anything sharp that might become lodged or puncture the intestines.
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We provide chewy toys but our doggies love to munch on a stick or a piece of fire wood too.
Vet practices and groomers provide those services, if you are not confident cleaning your pets ears, clipping nails or anything else it is important that you hire a professional.